Extraordinary Ministers of Communion are appointed by the bishop to provide assistance to the priest during distribution of Holy Communion at Mass. Ministers are also permitted to reserve the remaining Hosts in the tabernacle and assist in the purifying of Eucharistic vessels after communion.

They may also be entrusted with taking the sacrament to the sick and absent members of the Church who are at home or in health care facilities, thus enabling those particular members of Christ’s body to share the church’s Eucharistic life.

In times of special need, and when prepared by the pastor, ministers may also present the reserved sacrament for communal adoration or distribute it during a liturgical service outside of Mass.

Extraordinary Ministers of Communion are selected by the pastor, trained and instructed in the ministry, and approved by the bishop. They are then permitted to participate in the Eucharistic services at Masses distributing Holy Communion.